A 19-year-old woman was subjected to a serious sex attack as she walked home late at night in Southwater, Horsham.

The attack happened on Friday, December 1 between 11.30pm and midnight on a footpath between Castlewood Road and Charlock Way, near Castlewood primary school.

The victim was dragged into bushes where the assault took place. She fought back and the man ran off. She was left so shocked and distressed she has only recently reported the offence to police.

The man was 35-45, heavily built, bow-legged with short dark hair with a side parting, round face and was wearing a dark puffa jacket with a collar or scarf.

Police are examining the case for any links with a series of assaults in Southwater in February and March 1998.

Det Con Heidi Duffin is appealing for help to find the man.

She said: "Please think carefully about any friends or relatives who would have been out in Southwater at that time and may fit any part of the description. Ask yourself did a friend or relative return late with muddy or dirty trousers, dishelleved or with any minor injuries to the head."

Anyone with information should ring 0845 60 70 999.